acidity regulator INS 330

Citric Acid E330

acidulant — Primarily natural (fermentation).

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid

CAS: 77-92-9

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Global Status

European Union approved

United States approved

Japan approved

Canada approved

AU / NZ approved

Also Known As

2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acidCitric acid anhydrousCitro

Commonly Found In

Soft drinks and carbonated beverages (most common acid) Candy and sour sweets Jams and preserves Fruit juices and fruit-flavored drinks Ice cream and sorbets Canned fruits and vegetables Wine and beer (as acidulant) Cheese and processed cheese products Baked goods and dessert mixes

Typical product categories; may vary by brand. Always check the physical label.

Similar Additives

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Citric Acid occurs naturally in citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges) and berries. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Global production scale: Over 2 million tonnes are produced annually, making it one of the most widely manufactured food additives in the world

Citric Acid is produced through fermentation — the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in most food categories without specific limits

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Generally Recognized As Safe with no specific limitations

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Widely used without specific restrictions

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Natural Occurrence

The most abundant organic acid in citrus fruits, giving them their characteristic sour taste. Lemons and limes contain 5-8% citric acid by weight.

citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges)berriestomatoespineapplespeaches

Manufacturing

Method: microbial fermentation

Commercially produced by fermentation of glucose or sucrose using the black mold Aspergillus niger. This method replaced extraction from citrus fruits in the early 20th century. Over 2 million tonnes are produced annually, making it one of the most widely manufactured food additives in the world.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used as a pH adjuster and chelating agent in skincare, haircare, and bath products.

Medical

Buffering agent, effervescent tablets, blood anticoagulant (sodium citrate form).

Industrial

Descaling agent, cleaning products, water softener, metal polish, concrete admixture.

Household

Natural cleaning agent, limescale remover, descaler for coffee machines and kettles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Citric Acid (E330)?

Citric Acid (E330) is a acidity regulator used in food products. It is acidulant and natural (fermentation). The most abundant organic acid in citrus fruits, giving them their characteristic sour taste. Lemons and limes contain 5-8% citric acid by weight.

Where is Citric Acid found naturally?

Citric Acid is naturally found in citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges), berries, tomatoes, pineapples, peaches. The most abundant organic acid in citrus fruits, giving them their characteristic sour taste. Lemons and limes contain 5-8% citric acid by weight.

What foods contain Citric Acid?

Citric Acid is used in various food categories including Dairy products and analogues, Non-alcoholic beverages, Confectionery. It is used as a acidity regulator in these products.

Is Citric Acid the same as 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid?

Yes, Citric Acid is also known as 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid, Citric acid anhydrous, Citro. These are different names for the same substance.